Yes — the thyroid is one of the most important glands affecting fertility and pregnancy. Any disorder must be treated before and during pregnancy.
Hypothyroidism Effect on Pregnancy:
- Difficulty conceiving: Causes ovulation disorders and irregular periods.
- Recurrent miscarriage: Especially in the first trimester.
- Pregnancy complications: Preeclampsia, anemia, placental abruption.
- Fetal effect: Thyroid hormones are essential for fetal brain development — especially first 12 weeks.
Hyperthyroidism Effect:
- Preterm delivery and low birth weight.
- Maternal tachycardia — sometimes heart failure.
Recommendations:
- Before pregnancy: TSH test for every woman planning pregnancy. Target TSH below 2.5.
- During pregnancy: TSH every 4-6 weeks in the first trimester. Levothyroxine dose adjustment — usually increases 25-50%.
- After delivery: Postpartum thyroiditis occurs in 5-10% of women.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we offer comprehensive thyroid screening as part of pre-pregnancy checkups.